Sunday, July 19, 2009

The Scene

Got my nails did this morning for a very special date in the afternoon. A wardrobe consultation with a new client named Kelley.

Kelley is a bubbly, SWEET twentysomething who hearts her job, her husband and her adorable little boy. She's at the top of her game - professionally and personally. Her only issue: a serious fashion slump she's slipped into since her pregnancy.

Kelley has yet to define her style partly because she's determined to shed a few pounds. Having a baby fundamentally changed her shape. Consequently, she doesn't really shop any more. She doesn't want to invest in this new body. I get it. But schlepping around in preganacy clothes when your baby is almost two? Not OK for pretty kitties who read this blog.

Realized this consultation was going to be a little different from my other ones. This one would be about encouraging Kelley to work with her transitioning figure. Helping her come out of hiding in a way. Embrace what was, is and will always be beautiful. Negotiate her new identity as a mother. Feel feminine and confident again.

Tall order, but I knew she was ready. I knew she was tired of blending into the background and not feeling like her SELF. I also knew she didn't have to lose one pound to start feeling more empowered about how she presents herself to the world. Not on my watch.

Was pleased to find an assortment of fun and affordable shoes in Kelley's closet. She said she bought these two with me in mind - What Would Diabolina Do style. Love.

Kelley also had a handful of dresses and tops that worked beautifully for her shape and lifestyle. When she put them on, her body language literally transformed. Must get her into more of these styles.

However most of the rest of her closet was filled with casual and work separates that were just plain jane meh. I think it will be best for her to invest in tops and dresses and accessories that will carry her through her weight loss.

Ended the session by forcing Kelley to break up her half a dozen sweater sets. Want her to stop wearing them matchy matchy boring boring style. I want her to start creating contrast in her outfits. I want to teach her how to layer and have fun accessorizing and create easy mommy sophistication ala Reese Witherspoon.

My goal for Ms. Kelley will be to create the foundation for work and play outfits that better complement her beautiful skin tone. She needs more prints and more sexy. She needs interesting pieces that draw attention to that great bustline, tiny waist and even better smile. Cannot wait to share the results in later posts.

Devoured a late lunch with my momma in the afternoon. Tried Comme Ca for the first time. Finally!

We arrived at such an odd hour that the restaurant was completely empty. Except for one other couple.

Taye Diggs and Idina Menzel!!! I die. Wasn't sure it was them at first. But then he took of his fedora and I heard her say she was pregnant and swollen. Realized that's why I hadn't recognized her. Can you beeeeeelieve the talented gorgeous creature these two are going to spawn?

Love, love, luuurv that you are styling a new mommy! As a fellow new mommy (and Official MSSFD Lurker), I would have to say that it is the worst feeling having a body in 'transition'. You want to get your fashion groove back, but alas, fats and milky boobs just make us want to throw in the towel!

I am in the same boat as Kelley. I just had a baby and am not feeling stylish AT ALL. A good day is when I am not wearing yoga pants. Can you come to MN and help ME??? You could even shop at the Mall of America! I don't have sweater sets, but I do have a cardigan in every color of the rainbow....:)